Rebels in tip-top shape, fewer injuries

ELY -- UNLV's weekly injury report last football season was usually so long, it seemed easier to count the number of healthy players rather than those forced to the sideline.

If this training camp is any indication, the Rebels won't have nearly as many hobbled players this season.

Only junior H-back Aaron Reed, who has a right knee injury, is seriously hurt. The others who are out -- and there are only three -- could return soon.

"The guys are in great condition," coach Bobby Hauck said. "We've pushed, and they've responded. They haven't spit the bit at all. It's been pretty good."

Many players previously used camp to get into shape. Nearly all of this season's team arrived at August practices already in excellent condition.

"Part of it is they're fighting through it, too," Hauck said. "There's a whole different attitude than there was at camp last year."

The result has been crisper practices, allowing Hauck to enter his second season focusing more on teaching technique than correcting attitude.

That's not to say the Rebels won't have a string of injuries. As Hauck pointed out, players often get hurt on fluke plays rather than hard hits.

UNLV, though, gets tested immediately. The Rebels open their season Sept. 1 at Wisconsin, and the Badgers traditionally are among the nation's more physical teams.

"Our guys are fit, and they're tough," Hauck said. "We'll be all right. I think we've got a mentally tough, physically tough football team."

NOTABLE

The Rebels began scout team work Tuesday in preparation for Wisconsin. "As is generally the case, the first time you do that, it wasn't as good as it needs to be," Hauck said. "But it'll get better, and that's all part of the process." ... Sophomore linebacker Taylor Walstad, who is sitting out this season after transferring from Arizona State, has been in a blue noncontact jersey because of illness. Walstad wasn't at practice Tuesday. Asked if Walstad was still on the team, Hauck said: "As of now, yeah. I mean, sort of. He hasn't practiced. He's been up here for a week and a half and hasn't done anything." ... Today is the final double-practice session of the camp. UNLV scrimmages Thursday morning, then returns to Las Vegas. ... The Tom Wiesner Award, which goes to a senior who characterizes courage and toughness, will be given today. Defensive tackle Isaako Aaitui was last season's recipient.